The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador is Proud to Support Initiatives that Contribute to the Health and Wellness of Youths

Wendake, QC, June 15, 2016 /CNW Telbec/ - Ever mindful of the significant needs that exist in First Nations communities in Quebec in terms of physical and mental health, the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) is proud to contribute financially to the efforts of two organizations that are getting ready to participate in events for Aboriginal youths.

As such, following the upcoming edition of its annual golf tournament on June 17 at the Le Grand Vallon Golf Course in Beaupré, the AFNQL will donate all the proceeds of the event to the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Youth Network, which will participate in the 2016 Youth Summit, and to the team Eastern Door and the North (EDN), which will participate in the North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) in 2017.

"Young people are the future of our communities, and it is our duty to support initiatives that seek to promote well-being and healthy lifestyle habits. By helping our young play an active role in their personal growth, we hope to reinforce their sense of pride and create a domino effect that will have a positive impact on their community at large," stated Ghislain Picard, Chief of the AFNQL.

2016 Youth Summit
In July, the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) will host the 2016 Youth Summit in Niagara Falls. This year, more than 150 Aboriginal youths from all across Canada will attend the Summit, which intends to start a dialogue on key questions related to mental health, suicide prevention, drug addiction and the social determinants of health. The AFNQL's contribution will also allow the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Youth Network's spokesperson to attend the 37^th Annual General Assembly (AGA) of the AFN.

North American Indigenous Games
The NAIG take place every three years and are the single largest gathering dedicated to Aboriginal sports and culture in North America. This event welcomes more than 5,000 Aboriginal youths between the ages of 12 and 19 from across Canada and the United States.

Team EDN will boast almost 300 athletes from different First Nations and Inuit villages who will represent the Quebec region during the upcoming Games, which will take place in Toronto in July 2017. The event offers a unique environment for athletes to perform in a spirit of fellowship, where fun is an integral part of the competition. The First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Health and Social Services Commission (FNQLHSSC) will coordinate team EDN, while emphasizing the importance of a healthy lifestyle for youths.

SOURCE Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador

For further information: Mélanie Vincent,[email protected], Cell. : 418-580-4442; Chantal Cleary : [email protected], Tél. : [phone]